The Northeast Tennessee Regional Health Office confirmed 25 cases of salmonella have been reported so far this year. 19 of those occurred in our region over the last two weeks, with 15 in Washington County.

Public health officials are currently questioning and testing those who have confirmed cases of salmonella poisoning. They tell us if you think you have symptoms, you should see your doctor; several other illnesses can have the same signs.

Dr. David Kirschke is the med director for the Northeast Tennessee Regional Health Office. "There are hundreds of things that can cause vomiting and diarrhea, so unless someone's had a specific test, a stool culture that is positive for salmonella, it won't be helpful for our study," he said.

Dr. Kirschke says the best way to prevent salmonella is to make sure you thoroughly cook poultry, ground beef, and eggs, and also wash all fresh fruits and vegetables.